FBI Adds Indian Gangster Nitish Kaushal to Most Wanted List in Crackdown on Bhagwanpuria Gang

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has placed alleged Indian gangster Nitish Kaushal on its Most Wanted list as part of its ongoing crackdown on the Bhagwanpuria organized crime group. The announcement was made by the FBI on Tuesday. According to the FBI, Kaushal, an Indian national, is allegedly involved in carrying out violent crimes on behalf of the Bhagwanpuria organized crime group. Authorities claim his alleged activities include murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking, assaults, and other violent offenses. The FBI further alleged that Kaushal is associated with a transnational criminal organization engaged in a range of serious crimes, including murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking, extortion, weapons trafficking, money laundering, and human trafficking. Investigators have warned that Kaushal should be considered armed, dangerous, and a flight risk. The agency has appealed to the public for assistance and urged anyone with information regarding Kaushal's whereabouts to contact their nearest FBI office or the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. According to the FBI, the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria organized crime group originated in the Indian state of Punjab and remains active in several locations, including the Central District of California. Court records cited by the FBI state that the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California issued an arrest warrant against Kaushal on June 25 on charges related to Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy. The action is part of the international investigation known as Operation Hard Ball, which targets the Bhagwanpuria gang. The operation includes coordinated raids and legal actions across the United States, Canada, and Europe, reflecting increased international efforts to dismantle transnational criminal syndicates with roots in India.